Syrian Interim President Warns of Division and Vows to Protect National Unity Amid Suwayda Crisis
In his first address since the ceasefire, Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa condemned foreign interference, praised Arab tribes, warned against revenge attacks in Suwayda, and highlighted the Druze community's importance to Syria's unity.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In his first public address since the Syrian government declared a nationwide ceasefire, Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa delivered a sweeping speech on Saturday addressing the escalating crisis in southern Syria, particularly the violent events in Suwayda. Al-Sharaa condemned foreign interference, armed retaliation, and rising separatist rhetoric, calling on all Syrians to unite under the state’s authority to restore national stability and security.
Suwayda Clashes Mark a Dangerous Turning Point
Al-Sharaa described the recent events in Suwayda as “a dangerous inflection point” in Syria’s political and security trajectory. Violent confrontations initially erupted between “armed outlaws and members of the Bedouin community,” quickly spiraling out of control before Syrian state intervention partially de-escalated the violence.
However, the interim president accused Israel of intensifying tensions through direct bombardments in the south and against state institutions in Damascus, warning that such aggression plunged the country into a critical phase. In response, both American and Arab mediators began efforts to defuse the situation.
Armed Revenge and Mass Displacement
Following the Syrian state's partial withdrawal from several areas, Sharaa revealed that armed factions from Suwayda launched retaliatory attacks against Bedouins and their families, triggering mass displacement and sowing fear and chaos. These acts, which included serious human rights violations, prompted Arab tribes to intervene in defense of the besieged Bedouins, escalating tensions and altering the national security landscape.
“The absence of the state,” Sharaa warned, “leads to rampant disorder and broader confrontations.”
Denouncing External Manipulation and Separatist Ambitions
The interim president harshly criticized “narrow interests” and separatist ambitions among certain figures in Suwayda who, he claimed, aligned with foreign powers and commanded militias committing acts of violence. Despite Syria’s previous support and public service to the province, al-Sharaa accused these individuals of tarnishing Suwayda’s role in national unity.
“Using Suwayda as a tool in international conflicts does not serve any Syrian,” he said, stressing that such moves threaten the country’s territorial integrity.
Arab Tribes: Pillars of National Solidarity
Al-Sharaa praised Syria’s Arab tribes as symbols of noble values who have historically defended the homeland and supported the state. While acknowledging that some tribes resorted to unilateral self-defense under pressure, he emphasized that such actions cannot replace the role of the state in maintaining order and sovereignty.
He called on tribal leaders to strictly uphold the ceasefire and obey state directives, warning that “this moment demands unity of ranks and full cooperation to safeguard Syria from external interference and internal discord.”
Appreciation for International and Regional Mediation
The Syrian leader extended gratitude to the United States for its supportive stance and role in stabilizing the country and backing reconstruction efforts. He also thanked Arab states and Türkiye for their regional contributions, noting that the European Union, Russia, and China all condemned Israeli airstrikes and violations of Syrian sovereignty.
This international consensus, he added, reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding Syria’s sovereignty and preventing further destabilization.
Druze Community Not to Be Blamed
Al-Sharaa firmly rejected any attempt to stigmatize the entire Druze community due to the actions of a limited group. He reaffirmed that Suwayda remains an integral part of the Syrian state and that the Druze are a fundamental pillar of the national fabric.
“Any attempt to dismantle Syrian unity or exclude any component threatens national stability,” he said, asserting that most of Suwayda’s residents remain committed to the state and reject separatist agendas.
Commitment to Justice and National Reconciliation
The interim president reiterated the Syrian state’s commitment to protecting all religious and ethnic communities, holding accountable anyone responsible for crimes and abuses—whether from within or outside Suwayda. He urged both Druze and Bedouin communities to preserve their shared history, kinship, and homeland, which transcend temporary conflicts.
“This critical moment calls for the voice of wisdom and the initiative of the honorable on both sides to heal wounds and restore social harmony,” he stated, cautioning against inflammatory rhetoric and calls for vengeance.
No Room for Partition or Sectarian Agendas
In closing, al-Sharaa asserted that Syria will not become a testing ground for projects of division or sectarian provocation. He noted that those who pursued separatism met tragic ends, and he called on all Syrians to return to the national path.
“The strength of the Syrian state lies in its people’s cohesion, its regional and global ties, and its unified national interests,” he declared.
He concluded by paying tribute to Syria’s fallen soldiers and victims of the recent strife, praying for the recovery of the wounded, and reaffirming Syria’s enduring role in regional stability and global affairs.
